Brachytherapy localization radiographs with conventional diagnostic x-ray machine

Abstract

With conventional diagnostic X-ray machines with over couch X-ray tubes, it is not possible to obtain anteroposterior (AP) and lateral (Lat) radiographs without changing the posture of the patients. In an old 300 mA X-ray machine with a fluoroscopy screen (12.4 kg) (1995 model), by substituting the screen with suitable counterweight and making provision to take the hoist pillar up to the edge of the wall, we could get isocentric setup for a hospital stretcher kept near the chest stand. This setup provided acceptable AP–Lat radiographs for brachytherapy localization using “Perspex jig” (Nucletron, Netherlands) and field check radiographs in head and neck, esophagus patients for treatment planning.

Keywords

• Diagnostic X-ray machines
• high-dose rate brachytherapy
• localization
• treatment planning